The McColl family and owners of the two commercial properties in Merimbula devastated by fire have spoken about their shock but have vowed to rebuild. Lynn McColl, who is president of the Merimbula Chamber of Commerce was on her way home to Merimbula, returning from an overseas holiday when she heard the terrible news. "Our family was shocked to wake up to the news of our shops burning down early this morning," Ms McColl said. "We are relieved and grateful that no one was injured." Ms McColl said she was worried about the effect on the two tenants, Tackleworld and the Willis Bakery, and their businesses and staff. "We are very concerned for our long term tenants whose businesses have been impacted terribly by the fire, but we will rebuild," Ms McColl said. The fire has resulted in a traffic detour - north bound traffic in Market Street will detour via Beach Street, something that is expected to be in place for some weeks, council said. Pedestrians and vehicle drivers are asked to avoid the area where possible. "We would like to thank all the emergency services for their rapid response and excellent work to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading into neighbouring properties," Ms MsColl said.

Ms McColl said she was worried about the effect on the two tenants, Tackleworld and the Willis Bakery, and their businesses and staff.

"We are very concerned for our long term tenants whose businesses have been impacted terribly by the fire, but we will rebuild," Ms McColl said.

The fire has resulted in a traffic detour - north bound traffic in Market Street will detour via Beach Street, something that is expected to be in place for some weeks, council said. Pedestrians and vehicle drivers are asked to avoid the area where possible.

"We would like to thank all the emergency services for their rapid response and excellent work to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading into neighbouring properties," Ms MsColl said.